3 recent Gold Glove winners the NY Mets could view as rebound candidates in 2026

It’s easy to sign or trade for a reigning Gold Glove winner. What about someone who wasn’t so sharp with the glove or bat last year? It seems to fit the motif of what David Stearns has done with pitching additions for the New York Mets, buying low on players who have been good in the past.

We know the Mets are prioritizing defense this offseason. The addition of Marcus Semien confirmed it. These three didn’t win a Gold Glove in 2025 but have at least one on their resume. Two free agents and a trade candidate, these three might be unexpectedly worthwhile additions for the Mets coming off of disappointing seasons at the plate and in the field.

1) Adolis Garcia

Easily the most fascinating non-tendered player, Adolis Garcia is going to be incredibly popular and will have plenty willing to pay him money to be their starting right fielder. A World Series hero and 2023 Gold Glove winner, he’s not “can’t miss” for the Mets but more so an intriguing pivot to make.

How does Garcia factor in? As a right field upgrade over Juan Soto, he can push the $765 million man to a more regular DH role or into left field. There are no longer as many moving parts with Nimmo gone to make this a more practical solution.

Garcia was worth 1 OAA last year after a hugely disappointing -12 the year before. His outfield defense has been incredibly inconsistent. Past seasons of an OAA as high as 9, the move would have some second-guessing if it didn’t improve the Mets overall.

The Mets have more room for a right-handed hitter with power potential. The loss of Starling Marte in free agency gives them a clear opening for Garcia. The benefit is he is a better defender and more justifiable as a DH with his power numbers. He’d even be likely to earn less than what the Mets paid Marte last year at a salary around $20 million.

Verdict: He’s a better fit elsewhere and the Mets will only kick the tires here.